News Summary
A motorcycle accident in Beaufort has resulted in the death of 68-year-old Allen Szczepek. This tragic incident occurred at the intersection of Trask Parkway and Glass Road, marking the seventh highway fatality in Beaufort County this year. Despite efforts to save him after being transported to the hospital, Szczepek succumbed to his injuries. The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the accident, which has raised concerns about motorcycle safety and road awareness in the community.
Beaufort, SC – A tragic motorcycle accident on June 12 has resulted in the death of Allen Szczepek, a 68-year-old resident of Beaufort. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Szczepek succumbed to injuries sustained in the incident, which marks the seventh highway fatality in the county this year.
The fatal collision took place around 4:30 p.m. at the intersection of Trask Parkway and Glass Road while Szczepek was traveling north on U.S. Highway 21. Reports indicate that Szczepek was operating a 2002 Harley-Davidson motorcycle when he lost control and ran off the right side of the roadway, leading to a spill onto the road.
Following the accident, Szczepek was transported to Beaufort Memorial Hospital for immediate medical attention. Despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead several hours later due to the blunt force injuries he sustained in the crash.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is currently investigating the cause of the accident. Cpl. Nick Pye is leading the inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
This incident has raised concerns regarding road safety in Beaufort County. So far in 2023, there have been seven reported highway fatalities in the region. The previous year saw a total of 13 highway deaths, with nine fatalities reported in both 2022 and 2023. The number of motorcycle-related incidents has become a pressing issue as part of the broader discussion on traffic safety measures.
Motorcycle accidents can often lead to severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protection for riders compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles. Safety advocates emphasize the importance of wearing helmets and protective gear, as well as adhering to roadway regulations to reduce the likelihood of such devastating accidents.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement is urging all motorists to remain vigilant and cautious on the roads. With summer quickly approaching, more motorcycles are expected to be on the streets, highlighting the necessity for increased awareness among all drivers.
The community of Beaufort is mourning the loss of Szczepek, whose life was cut short by this tragic event. Family, friends, and fellow riders are left to grapple with the shock and sorrow of this incident, as well as the ongoing issues related to road safety in the area.
As details continue to emerge from the investigation, local authorities will likely reinforce educational efforts about motorcycle safety and responsible driving practices to help prevent similar tragedies in the future. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed and uphold road safety to protect all who navigate these highways.
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Beaufort County Motorcycle Crash Leaves Driver Dead
- ABC News 4: 75-Year-Old Motorcyclist Identified in Fatal Beaufort County Crash
- Island Packet: Beaufort County Motorcycle Accident Leaves One Dead
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Motorcycle
- Post and Courier: Motorcycle Accident Fatality in Beaufort
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
